We’ve been having pesto pizza for as long as I’ve had kids because I love the flavor and it’s such a delicious way to serve a green food to kids—in a format that may be more comfortable. Also, pesto is one of those ingredients I tend to have on hand, so that means I can usually make this recipe without a lot of notice for a quick weeknight family dinner. This recipe requires just three simple ingredients, it’s straightforward to make, and it has a nice mix of nutrients. Plus, pizza is always a win! Pesto tends to be rich in Vitamin C and is a kid-friendly way to serve greens. It’s also a nice way to vary the flavor of pizza from the classic tomato sauce. (We also love my Pesto Pizza Roll version of this idea, and my Pesto Pasta Salad and quick Pesto Pasta with Peas. And my Pesto Meatballs.)
Ingredients You Need
To make this easy pizza recipe, you’ll need to have the following ingredients on hand. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough: Homemade, the kind that comes in a ball of dough, or even a premade flat crust would work, too. You can also use my Greek Yogurt Pizza Dough. Shredded mozzarella cheese: We use classic pizza cheese in this recipe. You can also use an Italian shredded cheese blend. Pesto: You can use any kind of pesto you like or find. I often use Spinach Pesto or Kale Pesto, but purchased basil pesto works well, too. Parmesan to top, if desired.
Step by Step Instructions
Here’s a look at the simple process involved in making this recipe. Scroll down to the bottom of the post for the full information, including the amounts and timing. TIP: If you have the dough ready, this meal comes together super fast. I’m showing this recipe being baked on a pizza stone, which preheats in the oven and makes a crispier crust, but you can also just bake it on a sheet pan.
Pesto for Pesto Pizza
I like to use classic basil pesto from the store, or I often use homemade Spinach Pesto or Kale Pesto. Any works, but try to choose one with a flavor that you like.
Pizza Dough for Pesto Pizza
I make this with homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Dough, but you can use purchased fresh dough or even a pre-baked crust. They all work fine and will give you options according to what you have on hand or can find at the store. You can also use my Greek Yogurt Pizza Dough. (This dough also works well in my homemade Pizza Pockets.)
How to Store
Store any leftovers, once cooled, in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm briefly to serve.
Best Tips for Success
Use any store-bought pesto or my Spinach Pesto or Kale Pesto. You can make these as little personal pizzas or as a larger classic pizza. Cut into sticks or cubes for younger toddlers to make the meal easy for them to chew. If using a pre-baked crust from the store, follow the baking directions on the package. Dairy-free: Use a favorite dairy-free cheese. Find all of my favorite pizza recipes for kids and my popular Pizza Rolls.
I’d love to hear your family’s feedback on this recipe, so please comment below to share. I appreciate each and every comment!
Favorite Pizza Rolls Recipe
Easy Spinach Pesto
10-Minute Flatbread Pizza
Quick & Easy Greek Pita Pizzas
This post was first published June 2020.
